Dhevaprom: Kwanruetai

Chapter 22

The fashion show ended successfully, much to everyone's relief, especially Pakakes. This was her first project, and after everything was settled, she called Arada to report. Arada showered her with praises, which made her happy, though she remained troubled by a difficult decision weighing on her: choosing between doing what was right and remaining loyal to someone who had supported her. Thankfully, there was still time before she had to return, and she planned to discuss everything with Chatklao before making any final decisions.

The team threw a small party for the models and staff at the hotel's restaurant on the ground floor. Meanwhile, Pakakes went upstairs to shower and change. She couldn't help but think about Pakrat, who had disappeared after their earlier conversation filled with hurtful words.

"I'll try not to trouble you by keeping my distance. But if you ever need anything, just call me anytime," he had said calmly.

Those words, simple as they were, had an unexpectedly profound effect on her heart. Growing up, Pakakes was constantly under close supervision and only experienced true freedom when she went abroad for her studies. Even then, she had to call her mother almost daily. When Pakrat came to look after her, she expected to feel suffocated—but to her surprise, she didn't.

Over time, she had met with him several times and become familiar with his presence. He was a visionary businessman and, more importantly, mature and composed. Whenever Pakakes sought his advice about her boutique, his suggestions were thoughtful and never overbearing. The more time they spent together, the more she realized how admirable he was.

"Don't try to hide it, sweetie. Just one look at you and I can tell how much Mr. Pakrat cares," someone had teased her once.

Was it true that he cared for her? Her internal bias made her dismiss the idea, reasoning that Pakrat only did so because Chatklao had asked him to.

He doesn't feel anything for me, she thought. He even criticized my outfits, calling them inappropriate. Her frustration led her to avoid him altogether.

As Pakakes glanced at herself in the mirror to ensure everything was in place, the aquamarine dress—crafted by her mentor abroad—flattered her fair complexion and hugged her figure perfectly. She had her hair styled into an elegant updo, with soft tendrils framing her graceful neckline. A delicate diamond pendant in the shape of the Chuthathep family monogram hung from her neck. With her makeup perfectly done, she exuded a blend of beauty and sophistication.

She wasn't trying to flatter herself, but she knew she could hold her own against anyone tonight. As her thoughts wandered to Pakrat, she hoped that seeing her in this dress might finally make him stop seeing her as a child.

When she entered the party, Pakrat's breath caught as he saw her. Never before had he been so captivated. Pakakes was stunning tonight, her oval face framed with elegance, her large, expressive eyes highlighted with eyeliner. She looked like an angel, leaving him momentarily breathless.

"Miss Pakakes is even more beautiful than the models. What a shame she doesn't accept modeling gigs—she'd probably outshine Rungrawee," Mintra remarked dramatically. Pakrat was surrounded by makeup artists and fashion staff at the time. Initially, he had intended to stay in his room to avoid making Pakakes uncomfortable, but Suwanit had persuaded him otherwise.

"Come join the party. Everyone's dying to meet Pakrat Thanasak," she'd said, somehow knowing his room number. Her persistence left him little choice.

He wasn't used to being the center of attention in social circles, though he had been approached by magazines to feature as a "dream bachelor." Pakrat rarely accepted such offers due to past family scandals, which had left him wary of public exposure. However, when he saw Pakakes, he couldn't resist. Tonight, everyone assumed he was her boyfriend, which explained the interest surrounding him.